We are continually reviewing quality improvement at Thornbury Kindergarten as part of the of the National Quality Standard (NQS) by the Australian Children’s Education & Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).  The National Quality Standard sets a high national benchmark for early childhood education and care and outside school hours care services in Australia.

 

As part of the NQS, the service must ensure a Quality Improvement Plan (QIP) is in place.  The aim of a QIP is to help providers self-assess their performance in delivering quality education and care, and to plan future improvements. The QIP also helps regulatory authorities with assessing the quality of the service.

 

It is intended that the NQS set a new national benchmark for the quality of children’s education and care services and gives families a better understanding of a quality service. This enables families to make informed decisions about the services providing education and care to their child.  

 

The NQS was informed by research about best practice and the way in which high quality education and care contributes to positive outcomes for children. It comprises seven quality areas, standards and elements:

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1. Educational program and practice

2. Children’s health and safety

3. Physical environment

4. Staffing arrangements

5. Relationships with children

6. Collaborative partnerships with families and communities

7. Leadership and service management.

 

The NQS is linked to national learning frameworks that recognise children learn from birth and outline practices to support and promote children’s learning.